The Federal Government has strongly rebuked the remarks made by the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, concerning the recently signed supplementary budget.
Obi criticized the budget for its alleged insensitivity to the citizens’ urgent welfare needs, terming it an “uncaring” move.
However, in a swift response, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, defended the budget as a “bold and pragmatic response” to Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
Idris emphasized that the N2.17 trillion 2023 Supplementary Budget addresses crucial sectors such as security, agriculture, food security, infrastructure, wage increase for workers, student loan schemes, and social safety nets. He urged Obi to thoroughly acquaint himself with the details of the budget before making any further critical statements.
The minister’s statement, released through his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, serves as a counterpoint to the Labour Party candidate’s contentions.
He noted
“The broad provisions in the supplementary budget are a reflection of President Tinubu’s strong desire and eagerness to support the vital functions of government, address urgent security needs, and fast-track the country’s recovery process from the economic impact occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy.”
Dust Raised as Tinubu Signs N2.17 Trillion Supplementary Budget into Law
The statement included an appeal from the minister for the
“political opposition to be informed and balanced in the exercise of their right to differing opinions and refrain from misrepresentation of facts for political gains.”
Moreover, he clarified that the supplementary budget stemmed from extensive collaboration and discussions with pertinent stakeholders, guaranteeing that the budgetary allocations closely matched the requirements and aspirations of Nigerians.
The minister highlighted that every aspect of the budget had undergone thorough examination prior to its enactment, showcasing Tinubu’s commitment to accountability and transparency in government spending, aiming to guarantee the effective utilization of public funds.
